WVNCC | West Virginia Northern Community College

John J. Young, Photographer
West Virginia History Hero
1929 – 2004

John J. Young, (J. J. to his friends), unknowingly preserved the history of train transportation in the Wheeling area from 1936 to 1959 when he photographed his favorite subjects – steam engines and the men who worked on those magnificent machines.

Young received national recognition as a train photographer with his own unique style. His pictures are treasured by many. In addition to his photography, John, with little prompting, would relate tales of his extensive experiences as he rode the rails over the years, capturing moments that are now part of our national heritage.

John Young’s generosity in sharing his work has allowed the Alumni Association of West Virginia Northern Community College to preserve and maintain a collection of his photos from the Wheeling area and to exhibit them for all to enjoy.

J. J. Young left a tremendous visual legacy of railroad history. He will be missed by many.